What crimes get an ankle monitor? It might surprise you. While some people may think that only severe crimes result in the use of ankle monitors, that’s actually not always the case. In fact, a wide variety of offences can lead to the use of this technology.
From drunk driving to domestic violence, there are many reasons why someone could be required to wear an ankle monitor. Keep reading to learn more about this type of monitoring and find out if you could be required to wear one yourself.
Generally, people who are required to wear an ankle monitor are those who have been charged with a crime but are out on bail. Other reasons someone might be required to wear an ankle monitor include being on probation or parole, or being released from prison and required to wear the monitor as a condition of release.
What is a Crime Ankle Monitor?
A crime ankle monitor is a device that is worn around the ankle to monitor the movement of an individual. It is also known as an electronic monitoring bracelet, GPS ankle bracelet, or tamper-proof tether.
The monitor sends information about the individual’s movement to a monitoring centre. If the individual violates any conditions of their release, such as staying within a certain geographic area or attending specific appointments, the centre will be notified and law enforcement can be dispatched to apprehend the individual.
What Crimes Are Typically Punishable By An Ankle Monitor?
There are a variety of crimes that can result in a punishment of an ankle monitor, including but not limited to domestic violence, DUI, breaking probation, and drug-related offences. The specifics depend on the jurisdiction, so it’s best to check with local law enforcement for more information. However, typically, an ankle monitor is used as a way to keep tabs on someone who is considered to be at a high risk of reoffending or skipping out on their court date.
For example, someone who has been convicted of domestic violence may be required to wear an ankle monitor as part of their probation in order to make sure they comply with the terms of their release and don’t contact their victim. In some cases, offenders may also be required to pay for the cost of the ankle monitor as part of their sentence.
Ankle monitors can also be used as a pretrial release option in some cases. This means that someone who is accused of a crime but has not yet been convicted may be released from jail on the condition that they wear an ankle monitor.
How Long Do Offenders Typically Have To Wear Ankle Monitors?
The typical length of time that offenders have to wear ankle monitors varies depending on the offence for which they were convicted. For misdemeanour offences, offenders typically have to wear ankle monitors for about six months.
For more serious felony offences, offenders may have to wear ankle monitors for a year or longer. Some states have laws that mandate how long certain types of offenders must wear ankle monitors. In general, however, the length of time that an offender has to wear an ankle monitor is set by the court.
What Are The Benefits Of Wearing An Ankle Monitor?
There are a few benefits to wearing an ankle monitor.
- First, it allows you to demonstrate that you are not a flight risk and are willing to comply with the conditions of your release.
- Second, it can help law enforcement keep track of your whereabouts and make sure you are following the terms of your release agreement.
- Finally, ankle monitors can serve as a strong deterrent against re-offending, as they show that you are being closely monitored by authorities.
Wearing an ankle monitor is not always comfortable or convenient, but it is often worth it in exchange for the peace of mind and increased safety it can provide.
How Does The Court Decide Who Has To Wear An Ankle Monitor?
Judges typically consider a variety of factors when deciding whether or not to order an ankle monitor, including the severity of the offence, the risk of flight, and the defendant’s criminal history. In some cases, the presence of an anklet may also be a condition of probation or parole. Ultimately, it is up to the court to determine whether an ankle monitor is necessary in each individual case.
What Are The Drawbacks Of Getting An Ankle Monitor?
There are a few drawbacks to getting an ankle monitor.
- First, they are visible and can be embarrassing to wear.
- Second, they can limit your mobility and what activities you can do.
- Third, they can be expensive to maintain and monitor.
- Finally, if you violate the terms of your monitoring, you may face additional penalties and punishments.
Conclusion:
So, what crimes get an ankle monitor? While it’s true that most people think of electronic monitoring as a tool for tracking convicted felons or sex offenders, the reality is that ankle bracelets are used for all sorts of offences, both serious and minor.
In fact, according to recent data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), approximately three-quarters of those who were required to wear ankle monitors were not convicted criminals but rather suspects awaiting trial or released on bail.
FAQS:
How Often Do People Have To Wear Ankle Monitors?
Most ankle monitors are worn for a minimum of 24 hours per day. Some may be removed for limited activities such as showering or sleeping. The typical model includes a plastic housing that attaches to the ankle with velcro and contains a battery-operated transmitter.
What Happens If An Offender Violates The Terms Of Their Ankle Monitor?
There are a few things that could happen if an offender violates the terms of their ankle monitor. The first is that the offender could be taken into custody and brought back to court. The second is that the offender could be fined, and the third is that the offender’s case could be sent back to trial. Depending on the severity of the offence, any one of these penalties could be given.
